Answer to Q2: You can clean the file using a "file card," which is a brush with metal bristles. I've cleaned my small files using a wire clothes brush that had fine wire bristles. You may also get satisfactory results using a dry plastic scrubby (usually used to wash pots & pans).
MGFoster:::mgf Oakland, CA (USA)
Nemesis wrote:
just a thought...is it possible to use some kind of chemical (even just liquid glue?)to melt the plastic off the files?
yep. use the thinnest liquid stuff. then clean like you do crucibles. iow, heat red hot.
You can clean the airbrush using turpentine or whatever other solvent is appropriate for the paints you use.
You can unclog files by using a "file card" -- basically a brush with fine metal bristles. For small hobby files, I use a suede brush, which is like a toothbrush with brass bristles. Brush across the file, following the ridges.
If the files are clogged with styrene, you can also try soaking them in a strong solvent such as lacquer thinner. I recommend using a tall narrow jar that can be sealed while they're soaking, so the fumes won't fill your home. The thinner will dissolve the plastic, or at least soften it enough so it can be scrubbed out more easily.
For your files - look for a steel toothbrush; I usually find mine (cheap) at gun shows or in gun stores. You can rejuvinate them with that.
Then also keep a firm regular toothbrush on your bench, and give them a dressing after each use...you should only have to use the steel brush when they get really clogged.
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